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He WW, Zeng XX, Qi XL, Gui CZ, Liao W, Tu X, Deng J, Dong YT, Hong W, He Y, Xiao Y, Guan ZZ. Regulating effect of miR-132-3p on the changes of MAPK pathway in rat brains and SH-SY5Y cells exposed to excessive fluoride by targeting expression of MAPK1. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 279:116467. [PMID: 38761497 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the changes of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in the central nervous system (CNS) induced by excessive fluoride has been confirmed by our previous findings, the underlying mechanism(s) of the action remains unclear. Here, we investigate the possibility that microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the aspect. METHODS As a model of chronic fluorosis, SD rats received different concentrations of fluoride in their drinking water for 3 or 6 months and SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to fluoride. Literature reviews and bioinformatics analyses were used to predict and real-time PCR to measure the expression of 12 miRNAs; an algorithm-based approach was applied to identify multiply potential target-genes and pathways; the dual-luciferase reporter system to detect the association of miR-132-3p with MAPK1; and fluorescence in situ hybridization to detect miR-132-3p localization. The miR-132-3p inhibitor or mimics or MAPK1 silencing RNA were transfected into cultured cells. Expression of protein components of the MAPK pathway was assessed by immunofluorescence or Western blotting. RESULTS In the rat hippocampus exposed with high fluoride, ten miRNAs were down-regulated and two up-regulated. Among these, miR-132-3p expression was down-regulated to the greatest extent and MAPK1 level (selected from the 220 genes predicted) was corelated with the alteration of miR-132-3p. Furthermore, miR-132-3p level was declined, whereas the protein levels MAPK pathway components were increased in the rat brains and SH-SY5Y cells exposed to high fluoride. MiR-132-3p up-regulated MAPK1 by binding directly to its 3'-untranslated region. Obviously, miR-132-3p mimics or MAPK1 silencing RNA attenuated the elevated expressions of the proteins components of the MAPK pathway induced by fluorosis in SH-SY5Y cells, whereas an inhibitor of miR-132-3p just played the opposite effect. CONCLUSION MiR-132-3p appears to modulate the changes of MAPK signaling pathway in the CNS associated with chronic fluorosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Wen He
- Department of Pathology at the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Zeng
- Department of Pathology at the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Xiao-Lan Qi
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Guizhou Medical University) of the Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Chuan-Zhi Gui
- Department of Pathology at the First People's Hospital of Guiyang, Guiyang 550001, PR China
| | - Wei Liao
- Department of Pathology at the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Xi Tu
- Department of Pathology at the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Jie Deng
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Guizhou Medical University) of the Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Yang-Ting Dong
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Guizhou Medical University) of the Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Wei Hong
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Guizhou Medical University) of the Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Yan He
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Guizhou Medical University) of the Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Yan Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Guizhou Medical University) of the Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang 550004, PR China
| | - Zhi-Zhong Guan
- Department of Pathology at the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University, Guiyang 550004, PR China; Key Laboratory of Endemic and Ethnic Diseases (Guizhou Medical University) of the Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Biology, Guiyang 550004, PR China.
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2
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Weiss EM, Guhathakurta D, Petrušková A, Hundrup V, Zenker M, Fejtová A. Developmental effect of RASopathy mutations on neuronal network activity on a chip. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1388409. [PMID: 38910965 PMCID: PMC11190344 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1388409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
RASopathies are a group of genetic disorders caused by mutations in genes encoding components and regulators of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway, resulting in overactivation of signaling. RASopathy patients exhibit distinctive facial features, cardiopathies, growth and skeletal abnormalities, and varying degrees of neurocognitive impairments including neurodevelopmental delay, intellectual disabilities, or attention deficits. At present, it is unclear how RASopathy mutations cause neurocognitive impairment and what their neuron-specific cellular and network phenotypes are. Here, we investigated the effect of RASopathy mutations on the establishment and functional maturation of neuronal networks. We isolated cortical neurons from RASopathy mouse models, cultured them on multielectrode arrays and performed longitudinal recordings of spontaneous activity in developing networks as well as recordings of evoked responses in mature neurons. To facilitate the analysis of large and complex data sets resulting from long-term multielectrode recordings, we developed MATLAB-based tools for data processing, analysis, and statistical evaluation. Longitudinal analysis of spontaneous network activity revealed a convergent developmental phenotype in neurons carrying the gain-of-function Noonan syndrome-related mutations Ptpn11 D61Y and Kras V14l. The phenotype was more pronounced at the earlier time points and faded out over time, suggesting the emergence of compensatory mechanisms during network maturation. Nevertheless, persistent differences in excitatory/inhibitory balance and network excitability were observed in mature networks. This study improves the understanding of the complex relationship between genetic mutations and clinical manifestations in RASopathies by adding insights into functional network processes as an additional piece of the puzzle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva-Maria Weiss
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Debarpan Guhathakurta
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Aneta Petrušková
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
- Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czechia
- National Institute of Mental Health, Prague, Czechia
| | - Verena Hundrup
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Martin Zenker
- Medical Faculty, Institute of Human Genetics, University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto von Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anna Fejtová
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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3
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Bjorklund GR, Rees KP, Balasubramanian K, Hewitt LT, Nishimura K, Newbern JM. Hyperactivation of MEK1 in cortical glutamatergic neurons results in projection axon deficits and aberrant motor learning. Dis Model Mech 2024; 17:dmm050570. [PMID: 38826084 PMCID: PMC11247507 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Abnormal extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2, encoded by Mapk3 and Mapk1, respectively) signaling is linked to multiple neurodevelopmental diseases, especially the RASopathies, which typically exhibit ERK1/2 hyperactivation in neurons and non-neuronal cells. To better understand how excitatory neuron-autonomous ERK1/2 activity regulates forebrain development, we conditionally expressed a hyperactive MEK1 (MAP2K1) mutant, MEK1S217/221E, in cortical excitatory neurons of mice. MEK1S217/221E expression led to persistent hyperactivation of ERK1/2 in cortical axons, but not in soma/nuclei. We noted reduced axonal arborization in multiple target domains in mutant mice and reduced the levels of the activity-dependent protein ARC. These changes did not lead to deficits in voluntary locomotion or accelerating rotarod performance. However, skilled motor learning in a single-pellet retrieval task was significantly diminished in these MEK1S217/221E mutants. Restriction of MEK1S217/221E expression to layer V cortical neurons recapitulated axonal outgrowth deficits but did not affect motor learning. These results suggest that cortical excitatory neuron-autonomous hyperactivation of MEK1 is sufficient to drive deficits in axon outgrowth, which coincide with reduced ARC expression, and deficits in skilled motor learning. Our data indicate that neuron-autonomous decreases in long-range axonal outgrowth may be a key aspect of neuropathogenesis in RASopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- George R. Bjorklund
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Katherina P. Rees
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | | | - Lauren T. Hewitt
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Kenji Nishimura
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
| | - Jason M. Newbern
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
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4
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Vermeulen A, D'Arco F, De Groote L, De Cocker LJL. Signal Abnormalities in Noonan Syndrome are Probably Consistent with Focal Areas of Signal Intensity (FASI). Clin Neuroradiol 2024; 34:495-497. [PMID: 37847295 DOI: 10.1007/s00062-023-01356-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Arne Vermeulen
- Department of Radiology, AZ Maria Middelares, Buitenring Sint-Denijs 30, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Felice D'Arco
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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5
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Lucena MH, Balasundaram P, Carney M, Green E, Breilyn MS, Fuloria M. Leukocytosis and Splenomegaly in a Neonate With NRAS Mutation. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2024; 63:451-455. [PMID: 37264612 DOI: 10.1177/00099228231176341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle H Lucena
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Palanikumar Balasundaram
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Megan Carney
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Erica Green
- Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Margo S Breilyn
- Division of Medical Genetics and Genomics, Department of Genetics and Genomic Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Mamta Fuloria
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
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6
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Ye W, Lu X, Qiao Y, Ou WB. Activity and resistance to KRAS G12C inhibitors in non-small cell lung cancer and colorectal cancer. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer 2024; 1879:189108. [PMID: 38723697 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2024.189108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and colorectal cancer (CRC) are associated with a high mortality rate. Mutations in the V-Ki-ras2 Kirsten Rat Sarcoma Viral Oncogene Homolog (KRAS) proto-oncogene GTPase (KRAS) are frequently observed in these cancers. Owing to its structural attributes, KRAS has traditionally been regarded as an "undruggable" target. However, recent advances have identified a novel mutational regulatory site, KRASG12C switch II, leading to the development of two KRASG12C inhibitors (adagrasib and sotorasib) that are FDA-approved. This groundbreaking discovery has revolutionized our understanding of the KRAS locus and offers treatment options for patients with NSCLC harboring KRAS mutations. Due to the presence of alternative resistance pathways, the use of KRASG12C inhibitors as a standalone treatment for patients with CRC is not considered optimal. However, the combination of KRASG12C inhibitors with other targeted drugs has demonstrated greater efficacy in CRC patients harboring KRAS mutations. Furthermore, NSCLC and CRC patients harboring KRASG12C mutations inevitably develop primary or acquired resistance to drug therapy. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of resistance mechanisms, such as secondary mutations of KRAS, mutations of downstream intermediates, co-mutations with KRAS, receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) activation, Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transitions (EMTs), and tumor remodeling, the implementation of KRASG12C inhibitor-based combination therapy holds promise as a viable solution. Furthermore, the emergence of protein hydrolysis-targeted chimeras and molecular glue technologies has been facilitated by collaborative efforts in structural science and pharmacology. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive review of the recent advancements in various aspects related to the KRAS gene, including the KRAS signaling pathway, tumor immunity, and immune microenvironment crosstalk, as well as the latest developments in KRASG12C inhibitors and mechanisms of resistance. In addition, this study discusses the strategies used to address drug resistance in light of the crosstalk between these factors. In the coming years, there will likely be advancements in the development of more efficacious pharmaceuticals and targeted therapeutic approaches for treating NSCLC and CRC. Consequently, individuals with KRAS-mutant NSCLC may experience a prolonged response duration and improved treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Ye
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xin Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Yue Qiao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Wen-Bin Ou
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Silkworm Bioreactor and Biomedicine, College of Life Sciences and Medicine, Zhejiang Sci-Tech University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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7
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Rodríguez-Martín M, Báez-Flores J, Ribes V, Isidoro-García M, Lacal J, Prieto-Matos P. Non-Mammalian Models for Understanding Neurological Defects in RASopathies. Biomedicines 2024; 12:841. [PMID: 38672195 PMCID: PMC11048513 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12040841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
RASopathies, a group of neurodevelopmental congenital disorders stemming from mutations in the RAS/MAPK pathway, present a unique opportunity to delve into the intricacies of complex neurological disorders. Afflicting approximately one in a thousand newborns, RASopathies manifest as abnormalities across multiple organ systems, with a pronounced impact on the central and peripheral nervous system. In the pursuit of understanding RASopathies' neurobiology and establishing phenotype-genotype relationships, in vivo non-mammalian models have emerged as indispensable tools. Species such as Danio rerio, Drosophila melanogaster, Caenorhabditis elegans, Xenopus species and Gallus gallus embryos have proven to be invaluable in shedding light on the intricate pathways implicated in RASopathies. Despite some inherent weaknesses, these genetic models offer distinct advantages over traditional rodent models, providing a holistic perspective on complex genetics, multi-organ involvement, and the interplay among various pathway components, offering insights into the pathophysiological aspects of mutations-driven symptoms. This review underscores the value of investigating the genetic basis of RASopathies for unraveling the underlying mechanisms contributing to broader neurological complexities. It also emphasizes the pivotal role of non-mammalian models in serving as a crucial preliminary step for the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Rodríguez-Martín
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Juan Báez-Flores
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Vanessa Ribes
- Institut Jacques Monod, Université Paris Cité, CNRS, F-75013 Paris, France;
| | - María Isidoro-García
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
- Clinical Biochemistry Department, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Clinical Rare Diseases Reference Unit DiERCyL, 37007 Castilla y León, Spain
- Department of Medicine, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Jesus Lacal
- Laboratory of Functional Genetics of Rare Diseases, Department of Microbiology and Genetics, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.R.-M.); (J.B.-F.)
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
| | - Pablo Prieto-Matos
- Institute of Biomedical Research of Salamanca (IBSAL), 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (M.I.-G.); (P.P.-M.)
- Clinical Rare Diseases Reference Unit DiERCyL, 37007 Castilla y León, Spain
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
- Department of Biomedical and Diagnostics Science, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
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8
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Mudau MM, Dillon B, Smal C, Feben C, Honey E, Carstens N, Krause A. Mutation analysis and clinical profile of South African patients with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) phenotype. Front Genet 2024; 15:1331278. [PMID: 38596211 PMCID: PMC11002079 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2024.1331278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is an autosomal dominant genetic condition with complete age-dependent penetrance, variable expressivity and a global prevalence of ∼1/3,000. It is characteriszed by numerous café-au-lait macules, skin freckling in the inguinal or axillary regions, Lisch nodules of the iris, optic gliomas, neurofibromas, and tumour predisposition. The diagnostic testing strategy for NF1 includes testing for DNA single nucleotide variants (SNVs), copy number variants (CNVs) as well as RNA analysis for deep intronic and splice variants, which can cumulatively identify the causative variant in 95% of patients. In the present study, NF1 patients were screened using a next-generation sequencing (NGS) assay targeting NF1 exons and intron/exon boundaries for SNV and NF1 multiple ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis for CNV detection. Twenty-six unrelated Southern African patients clinically suspected of having NF1, based on the clinical diagnostic criteria developed by the National Institute of Health (NIH), were included in the current study. A detection rate of 58% (15/26) was obtained, with SNVs identified in 80% (12/15) using a targeted gene panel and NF1 gene deletion in 20% (3/15) identified using MLPA. Ten patients (38%) had no variants identified, although they met NF1 diagnostic criteria. One VUS was identified in this study in a patient that met NF1 diagnostic criteria, however there was no sufficient information to classify variant as pathogenic. The clinical features of Southern African patients with NF1 are similar to that of the known NF1 phenotype, with the exception of a lower frequency of plexiform neurofibromas and a higher frequency of developmental/intellectual disability compared to other cohorts. This is the first clinical and molecular characterisation of a Southern African ancestry NF1 cohort using both next-generation sequencing and MLPA analysis. A significant number of patients remained without a diagnosis following DNA-level testing. The current study offers a potential molecular testing strategy for our low resource environment that could benefit a significant proportion of patients who previously only received a clinical diagnosis without molecular confirmation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Mabyalwa Mudau
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Bronwyn Dillon
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Clarice Smal
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Candice Feben
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Engela Honey
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Nadia Carstens
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Genomics Platform, South African Medical Research Council, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Amanda Krause
- Division of Human Genetics, National Health Laboratory Service and School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Brown W, Davidson LA, Deiters A. Expanding the Genetic Code of Xenopus laevis Embryos. ACS Chem Biol 2024; 19:516-525. [PMID: 38277773 PMCID: PMC10877573 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
The incorporation of unnatural amino acids into proteins through genetic code expansion has been successfully adapted to African claw-toed frog embryos. Six unique unnatural amino acids are incorporated site-specifically into proteins and demonstrate robust and reliable protein expression. Of these amino acids, several are caged analogues that can be used to establish conditional control over enzymatic activity. Using light or small molecule triggers, we exhibit activation and tunability of protein functions in live embryos. This approach was then applied to optical control over the activity of a RASopathy mutant of NRAS, taking advantage of generating explant cultures from Xenopus. Taken together, genetic code expansion is a robust approach in the Xenopus model to incorporate novel chemical functionalities into proteins of interest to study their function and role in a complex biological setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wes Brown
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Lance A. Davidson
- Departments
of Bioengineering, Developmental Biology, and Computational and Systems
Biology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Alexander Deiters
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
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10
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Nussinov R, Liu Y, Zhang W, Jang H. Cell phenotypes can be predicted from propensities of protein conformations. Curr Opin Struct Biol 2023; 83:102722. [PMID: 37871498 PMCID: PMC10841533 DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Proteins exist as dynamic conformational ensembles. Here we suggest that the propensities of the conformations can be predictors of cell function. The conformational states that the molecules preferentially visit can be viewed as phenotypic determinants, and their mutations work by altering the relative propensities, thus the cell phenotype. Our examples include (i) inactive state variants harboring cancer driver mutations that present active state-like conformational features, as in K-Ras4BG12V compared to other K-Ras4BG12X mutations; (ii) mutants of the same protein presenting vastly different phenotypic and clinical profiles: cancer and neurodevelopmental disorders; (iii) alterations in the occupancies of the conformational (sub)states influencing enzyme reactivity. Thus, protein conformational propensities can determine cell fate. They can also suggest the allosteric drugs efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Nussinov
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; Department of Human Molecular Genetics and Biochemistry, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel; Cancer Innovation Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA.
| | - Yonglan Liu
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Wengang Zhang
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
| | - Hyunbum Jang
- Computational Structural Biology Section, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research, Frederick, MD 21702, USA; Cancer Innovation Laboratory, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, MD 21702, USA
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Brown W, Wesalo J, Samanta S, Luo J, Caldwell SE, Tsang M, Deiters A. Genetically Encoded Aminocoumarin Lysine for Optical Control of Protein-Nucleotide Interactions in Zebrafish Embryos. ACS Chem Biol 2023; 18:1305-1314. [PMID: 37272594 PMCID: PMC10278064 DOI: 10.1021/acschembio.3c00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The strategic placement of unnatural amino acids into the active site of kinases and phosphatases has allowed for the generation of photocaged signaling proteins that offer spatiotemporal control over activation of these pathways through precise light exposure. However, deploying this technology to study cell signaling in the context of embryo development has been limited. The promise of optical control is especially useful in the early stages of an embryo where development is driven by tightly orchestrated signaling events. Here, we demonstrate light-induced activation of Protein Kinase A and a RASopathy mutant of NRAS in the zebrafish embryo using a new light-activated amino acid. We applied this approach to gain insight into the roles of these proteins in gastrulation and heart development and forge a path for further investigation of RASopathy mutant proteins in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wes Brown
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Joshua Wesalo
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Subhas Samanta
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Ji Luo
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Steven E. Caldwell
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Michael Tsang
- Department
of Developmental Biology, University of
Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
| | - Alexander Deiters
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15260, United States
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12
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Darouich S, Chakroun AS, Bellamine H, Khamassi I. A severe clinicopathologic phenotype of RAF1 Ser257Leu neomutation in a preterm infant without cardiac anomaly. Am J Med Genet A 2023; 191:630-633. [PMID: 36333975 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.63035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Phenotype analysis of the Noonan syndrome (NS) related to RAF1 mutations demonstrates that a high proportion of cases exhibit severe lymphatic dysplasia and congenital heart disease, especially hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Because of the difficulty of fetal phenotypic assessment, the percentage of cases with multisystemic prenatal presentation as well as the phenotypic variability may be underestimated. We describe a 35 weeks male preterm infant presenting with de novo missense mutation NM_002880.4(RAF1):c.770C>T (p.Ser257Leu), whose death occurred following birth. Antenatal ultrasound showed polyhydramnios, severe ascites, and tongue protrusion. Autopsy revealed multiple congenital anomalies including intrauterine growth restriction, hydrops fetalis, characteristic facial dysmorphia, short and webbed neck, hypertrichosis, severe lungs hypoplasia, thymic hyperplasia, hepato-splenomegaly, bilateral mild uretero-hydronephrosis, and mild pontocerebellar hypoplasia. Histology revealed increased hepatic hematopoiesis and iron deposits. This report confirms that NS may be associated with multisystem involvement and provides further evidence for the wide phenotypic variability associated with RAF1 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sihem Darouich
- Faculté de Médecine de Tunis, Université de Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia.,Unité de Pathologie Foetale et Placentaire, CHU Habib Bougatfa, Bizerte, Tunisie
| | - Ahmed Sahbi Chakroun
- Laboratoire d'Epidémiologie Moléculaire et Pathologie Expérimentale, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, Tunis, Tunisie
| | - Houda Bellamine
- Département de Cytologie et Anatomie Pathologiques, Hôpital Menzel Bourguiba, Menzel Bourguiba, Tunisie
| | - Ichrak Khamassi
- Département de Néonatologie et Pédiatrie, CHU Habib Bougatfa, Bizerte, Tunisie
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13
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Davico C, D'Alessandro R, Borgogno M, Campagna F, Torta F, Ricci F, Amianto F, Vittorini R, Carli D, Mussa A, Vitiello B, Ferrero GB. Epilepsy in a cohort of children with Noonan syndrome and related disorders. Eur J Pediatr 2022; 181:2919-2926. [PMID: 35575813 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-022-04497-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Noonan syndrome (NS) and related disorders encompass a phenotypically heterogeneous group of conditions due to mutations in the Ras/Mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway. The main objective of this study was to assess the presence and characteristics of epilepsy in children and adolescents affected by NS and related disorders. The study included all the patients aged 5-21 years who had been diagnosed with NS or of one of three Noonan-like syndromes (i.e., cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome, Noonan syndrome with multiple lentigines, and Noonan-like syndrome with loose anagen hair) at a university pediatric hospital. Clinical, EEGs, brain MRIs, and genotype data were extracted from the medical records, and follow-up telephone interviews were conducted to obtain updated information about epilepsy and its course. Out of a total of 75 patients (38 [50.7%] males, median age at assessment 12.0 years [q1 9.0-q3 17.0]; 61 [81.3%] with NS; and 14 [18.7%] with a Noonan-like syndrome), 13 (17.3%) had epilepsy, with median age at onset of 4.0 years (q1 2.0-q3 8.0, min 0.1-max 17.0). Epilepsy was more common among Noonan-like patients (50.0%) than in NS (9.8%, p < 0.001), and its presence was associated with neurodevelopmental delay (p < 0.001, OR 14.6 95% CI 3.6-59.4), cognitive impairment (p = 0.002, OR 11.2 95% CI 2.5-51.0), need for educational support (p < 0.001, OR 21.8, 95% CI 2.6-179.1), and lower adaptive functioning (median [q1-q3]: 54.0 [q1 40.0-q3 77.5] vs 97.0 [q1 76.5-q3 107.0] of the non-epileptic subgroup, p = 0.004). In 10 out of 13 cases (76.9%), the epilepsy outcome was good (i.e., seizure-free for more than 12 months with or without anti-seizure medication). CONCLUSION Epilepsy was more common in NS than reported in the general population, with a significantly higher rate in Noonan-like syndromes. Epilepsy was associated with neurodevelopmental delay, cognitive impairment, and lower adaptive functioning. WHAT IS KNOWN • Neurological abnormalities have been reported in NS and related disorders. • There is evidence of a phenotype-genotype relationship for neurological abnormalities. WHAT IS NEW • Epilepsy was found to be more common in NS and related disorders than typically reported in the general population and associated with neurodevelopmental delay, cognitive, and functional impairment. • The Noonan-like phenotype had a higher frequency of epilepsy than typical NS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Davico
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Regina Margherita Hospital, Piazza Polonia 94, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Rossella D'Alessandro
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Regina Margherita Hospital, Piazza Polonia 94, 10126, Turin, Italy.
| | - Marta Borgogno
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Regina Margherita Hospital, Piazza Polonia 94, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Filippa Campagna
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Regina Margherita Hospital, Piazza Polonia 94, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Francesca Torta
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Regina Margherita Hospital, Piazza Polonia 94, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Federica Ricci
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Regina Margherita Hospital, Piazza Polonia 94, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Federico Amianto
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Neurosciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Roberta Vittorini
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Regina Margherita Hospital, Piazza Polonia 94, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Diana Carli
- Pediatric Genetics Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Alessandro Mussa
- Pediatric Genetics Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Turin, Italy
| | - Benedetto Vitiello
- Section of Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Regina Margherita Hospital, Piazza Polonia 94, 10126, Turin, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista Ferrero
- Pediatric Genetics Unit, Department of Public Health and Pediatric Sciences, Università Degli Studi Di Torino, Turin, Italy
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14
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Leoni C, Viscogliosi G, Tartaglia M, Aoki Y, Zampino G. Multidisciplinary Management of Costello Syndrome: Current Perspectives. J Multidiscip Healthc 2022; 15:1277-1296. [PMID: 35677617 PMCID: PMC9169840 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s291757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Costello syndrome (CS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by germline mutations in HRAS. It belongs among the RASopathies, a group of syndromes characterized by alterations in components of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway and sharing overlapping phenotypes. Its typical features include a distinctive facial appearance, growth delay, intellectual disability, ectodermal, cardiac, and musculoskeletal abnormalities, and cancer predisposition. Due to the several comorbidities having a strong impact on the quality of life, a multidisciplinary team is essential in the management of such a condition from infancy to adult age, to promptly address any detected issue and to develop appropriate personalized follow-up protocols and treatment strategies. With the present paper we aim to highlight the core and ancillary medical disciplines involved in managing the health challenges characterizing CS from pediatric to adult age, according to literature and to our large clinical experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Leoni
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Germana Viscogliosi
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Tartaglia
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Yoko Aoki
- Department of Medical Genetics, Tohoku University School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Giuseppe Zampino
- Center for Rare Diseases and Birth Defects, Department of Woman and Child Health and Public Health, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario “A. Gemelli” IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
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15
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Neurologic and neurodevelopmental complications in cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome are associated with genotype: A multinational cohort study. Genet Med 2022; 24:1556-1566. [PMID: 35524774 DOI: 10.1016/j.gim.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Dysregulation of RAS or its major effector pathway is the molecular mechanism of RASopathies, a group of multisystemic congenital disorders. Neurologic complications are especially challenging in the management of the rare RASopathy cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC) syndrome. This study evaluated clinical neurologic and neurodevelopmental features and their associations with CFC syndrome gene variants. METHODS A multinational cohort of 138 individuals with CFC syndrome (BRAF = 90, MAP2K1 = 36, MAP2K2 = 10, KRAS = 2) was recruited. Neurologic presentation was captured via clinician review of medical records and caregiver-completed electronic surveys. Validated measures of seizure severity, adaptive function, and gross motor function were obtained. RESULTS The overall frequency of intellectual disability and seizures was 82% and 55%, respectively. The frequency and severity of seizures was higher among individuals with BRAF or MAP2K1 variants than in those with MAP2K2 variants. A disproportionate incidence of severe, treatment-resistant seizures was observed in patients with variants in the catalytic protein kinase domain of BRAF and at the common p.Y130 site of MAP2K1. Neurodevelopmental outcomes were associated with genotype as well as seizure severity. CONCLUSION Molecular genetic testing can aid in prediction of epilepsy and neurodevelopmental phenotypes in CFC syndrome. Study results identified potential CFC syndrome-associated variants in the development of relevant animal models for neurologic, neurocognitive, and motor function impairment.
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16
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Endosomal trafficking defects alter neural progenitor proliferation and cause microcephaly. Nat Commun 2022; 13:16. [PMID: 35013230 PMCID: PMC8748540 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27705-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary microcephaly and megalencephaly are severe brain malformations defined by reduced and increased brain size, respectively. Whether these two pathologies arise from related alterations at the molecular level is unclear. Microcephaly has been largely associated with centrosomal defects, leading to cell death. Here, we investigate the consequences of WDR81 loss of function, which causes severe microcephaly in patients. We show that WDR81 regulates endosomal trafficking of EGFR and that loss of function leads to reduced MAP kinase pathway activation. Mouse radial glial progenitor cells knocked-out for WDR81 exhibit reduced proliferation rate, subsequently leading to reduced brain size. These proliferation defects are rescued in vivo by expressing a megalencephaly-causing mutant form of Cyclin D2. Our results identify the endosomal machinery as an important regulator of proliferation rates and brain growth, demonstrating that microcephaly and megalencephaly can be caused by opposite effects on the proliferation rate of radial glial progenitors. Mutations in the human WDR81 gene result in severe microcephaly. Carpentieri et al. show that mutation of WDR81, a gene coding for an endosomal regulator, alters intracellular processing of the EGF receptor, leading to reduced proliferation rates of neuronal progenitors and to microcephaly.
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17
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ERAS, a Member of the Ras Superfamily, Acts as an Oncoprotein in the Mammary Gland. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 13:cancers13215588. [PMID: 34771750 PMCID: PMC8582886 DOI: 10.3390/cancers13215588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The genes of the RAS family are among the group of genes most frequently mutated in human cancer. ERAS is a relatively unknown gene of this family. Although ERAS is overexpressed in some tumoral samples and in several cancer cell lines of human origin, it is not known if its expression drives tumor formation or if, alternatively, its expression is a secondary event in tumoral transformation. In this report, in order to clarify the role of ERAS in mammary tumorigenesis, we studied transgenic mice expressing ERAS in myoepithelial cells of mammary and other exocrine glands and in basal cells of stratified epithelia. These mice displayed an altered development and function of the mammary glands, and suffered high-frequency tumoral lesions in the mammary glands resembling a rare human breast tumor named malignant adenomyoepithelioma. Our results clearly demonstrate that ERAS is a true oncogene able to produce mammary tumors when inappropriately expressed. Abstract ERAS is a relatively uncharacterized gene of the Ras superfamily. It is expressed in ES cells and in the first stages of embryonic development; later on, it is silenced in the majority of cell types and tissues. Although there are several reports showing ERAS expression in tumoral cell lines and human tumor samples, it is unknown if ERAS deregulated expression is enough to drive tumor development. In this report, we have generated transgenic mice expressing ERAS in myoepithelial basal cells of the mammary gland and in basal cells of stratified epithelia. In spite of the low level of ERAS expression, these transgenic mice showed phenotypic alterations resembling overgrowth syndromes caused by the activation of the AKT-PI3K pathway. In addition, their mammary glands present developmental and functional disabilities accompanied by morphological and biochemical alterations in the myoepithelial cells. These mice suffer from tumoral transformation in the mammary glands with high incidence. These mammary tumors resemble, both histologically and by the expression of differentiation markers, malignant adenomyoepitheliomas. In sum, our results highlight the importance of ERAS silencing in adult tissues and define a truly oncogenic role for ERAS in mammary gland cells when inappropriately expressed.
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18
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Garcia-Bonilla M, McAllister JP, Limbrick DD. Genetics and Molecular Pathogenesis of Human Hydrocephalus. Neurol India 2021; 69:S268-S274. [PMID: 35102976 DOI: 10.4103/0028-3886.332249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Hydrocephalus is a neurological disorder with an incidence of 80-125 per 100,000 live births in the United States. The molecular pathogenesis of this multidimensional disorder is complex and has both genetic and environmental influences. This review aims to discuss the genetic and molecular alterations described in human hydrocephalus, from well-characterized, heritable forms of hydrocephalus (e.g., X-linked hydrocephalus from L1CAM variants) to those affecting cilia motility and other complex pathologies such as neural tube defects and Dandy-Walker syndrome. Ventricular zone disruption is one key pattern among congenital and acquired forms of hydrocephalus, with abnormalities in cadherins, which mediate neuroepithelium/ependymal cell junctions and contribute to the pathogenesis and severity of the disease. Given the relationship between hydrocephalus pathogenesis and neurodevelopment, future research should elucidate the genetic and molecular mechanisms that regulate ventricular zone integrity and stem cell biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Garcia-Bonilla
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - James P McAllister
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - David D Limbrick
- Department of Neurosurgery, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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19
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ERK/MAPK signalling in the developing brain: Perturbations and consequences. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:792-805. [PMID: 34634357 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2021] [Revised: 09/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular regulated kinase/microtubule-associated protein kinase (ERK/MAPK) signalling pathway transduces signals that cause an alteration in the ongoing metabolic pathways and modifies gene expression patterns; thus, influencing cellular behaviour. ERK/MAPK signalling is essential for the proper development of the nervous system from neural progenitor cells derived from the embryonic mesoderm. Several signalling molecules that regulate the well-coordinated process of neurodevelopment transduce developmental information through the ERK/MAPK signalling pathway. The ERK/MAPK is a potential novel therapeutic target in several neurodevelopmental disorders, however, despite years of study, there is still significant uncertainty about the exact mechanism by which the ERK/MAPK signalling pathway elicits specific responses in neurodevelopment. Here, we will review the evidence highlighting the role of ERK/MAPK signalling in neurodevelopment. We will also discuss the structural implication and behavioural deficits associated with perturbed ERK/MAPK signalling pathway in cortical development, whilst examining its contribution to the neuropathology of several neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Schizophrenia, Fragile X, and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder.
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20
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Peusner KD, Bell NM, Hirsch JC, Beraneck M, Popratiloff A. Understanding the Pathophysiology of Congenital Vestibular Disorders: Current Challenges and Future Directions. Front Neurol 2021; 12:708395. [PMID: 34589045 PMCID: PMC8475631 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.708395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In congenital vestibular disorders (CVDs), children develop an abnormal inner ear before birth and face postnatal challenges to maintain posture, balance, walking, eye-hand coordination, eye tracking, or reading. Only limited information on inner ear pathology is acquired from clinical imaging of the temporal bone or studying histological slides of the temporal bone. A more comprehensive and precise assessment and determination of the underlying mechanisms necessitate analyses of the disorders at the cellular level, which can be achieved using animal models. Two main criteria for a suitable animal model are first, a pathology that mirrors the human disorder, and second, a reproducible experimental outcome leading to statistical power. With over 40 genes that affect inner ear development, the phenotypic abnormalities resulting from congenital vestibular disorders (CVDs) are highly variable. Nonetheless, there is a large subset of CVDs that form a common phenotype of a sac-like inner ear with the semicircular canals missing or dysplastic, and discrete abnormalities in the vestibular sensory organs. We have focused the review on this subset, but to advance research on CVDs we have added other CVDs not forming a sac-like inner ear. We have included examples of animal models used to study these CVDs. Presently, little is known about the central pathology resulting from CVDs at the cellular level in the central vestibular neural network, except for preliminary studies on a chick model that show significant loss of second-order, vestibular reflex projection neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenna D Peusner
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Nina M Bell
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - June C Hirsch
- Department of Neurology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
| | - Mathieu Beraneck
- Université de Paris, Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center, CNRS UMR 8002, Paris, France
| | - Anastas Popratiloff
- The George Washington University Nanofabrication and Imaging Center, Washington, DC, United States
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21
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Ijomone OM, Iroegbu JD, Aschner M, Bornhorst J. Impact of environmental toxicants on p38- and ERK-MAPK signaling pathways in the central nervous system. Neurotoxicology 2021; 86:166-171. [PMID: 34389354 PMCID: PMC8440482 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuro.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Revised: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 08/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
There are several candidate signalling pathways that mediate the response of the central nervous system (CNS) cells to environmental toxins. However, much is still to be learned on how these pathways modulate neurotoxicity. The mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signalling pathways, which include the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) and the p38-MAPK, are potentially key pathways to regulate CNS responses to environmental toxins. The pathways play leading roles in the transmission of extracellular signals into the cell nucleus, leading to cell differentiation, cell growth, and apoptosis, to name a few. Moreover, exposure to environmental toxins induces p38- and ERK-MAPK activation, which leads to oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in the CNS. Here, we provide a concise review of the recent evidence demonstrating the role of p38- and ERK-MAPK signaling pathways and their downstream targets in the CNS following exposure to environmental toxicants such as metals, organophosphorus and persistent organic pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omamuyovwi M Ijomone
- Food Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany; The Neuro- Lab, Department of Human Anatomy, School of Health and Health Technology, Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Nigeria.
| | - Joy D Iroegbu
- The Neuro- Lab, Department of Human Anatomy, School of Health and Health Technology, Federal University of Technology Akure, Akure, Nigeria
| | - Michael Aschner
- Departments of Molecular Pharmacology and Neurosciences, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, NY, USA
| | - Julia Bornhorst
- Food Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Wuppertal, Wuppertal, Germany
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22
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Calandrelli R, Pilato F, Panfili M, Battaglia D, Gambardella ML, Colosimo C. Brain structural changes in patients with cardio-facio-cutaneous syndrome: effects of BRAF gene mutation and epilepsy on brain development. A case-control study by quantitative magnetic resonance imaging. Neuroradiology 2021; 64:185-195. [PMID: 34309696 DOI: 10.1007/s00234-021-02769-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the brain volumetric changes caused by BRAF gene mutation in non-epileptic CFC patients and the influence of the age of epilepsy onset on brain development in 2 cohorts of epileptic CFC patients. METHODS We enrolled CFC patients carrying BRAF gene mutations without epilepsy (4 patients) and with epilepsy (16 patients). CFC epileptic patients were divided into two cohorts based on the age of seizure onset: early-age onset (7 children) and late-age onset (9 adolescents). All three cohorts of patients underwent 3D FSPGR T1-weighted imaging to assess supratentorial and infratentorial brain volumes. Moreover, for each compartment, gray matter (GM), white matter (WM), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) volumes were measured. All measurements were compared with those of age-matched controls without neuroimaging abnormalities. RESULTS All CFC patients showed supratentorial and infratentorial WM reduction and supratentorial ventricular enlargement (p < 0.01). However, patients with early age of epilepsy onset, compared with the other two cohorts of CFC patients, showed both GM and a more pronounced WM volume reduction (p < 0.01). CONCLUSION In non-epileptic CFC children, we demonstrated WM volumetric reduction suggesting a direct effect of BRAF gene mutation on brain development. Nevertheless, in CFC epileptic patients, the age of epilepsy onset may contribute to brain atrophy. Brain atrophy in CFC patients, in part due to the natural history of the disease, may be worsened by epilepsy when it begins in the early ages because of interference with brain growth at that critical age of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosalinda Calandrelli
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Radiologia e Neuroradiologia, Polo Diagnostica per immagini, radioterapia, oncologia ed ematologia, Area diagnostica per immagini, Rome, Italy
| | - Fabio Pilato
- Unit of Neurology, Neurophysiology, Neurobiology, Department of Medicine, Campus Bio-Medico University, 00128, Rome, Italy.
| | - Marco Panfili
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Radiologia e Neuroradiologia, Polo Diagnostica per immagini, radioterapia, oncologia ed ematologia, Area diagnostica per immagini, Rome, Italy
| | - Domenica Battaglia
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto di Neuropsichiatria infantile, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Luigia Gambardella
- Child Neuropsychiatry Unit, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Cesare Colosimo
- Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, UOC Radiologia e Neuroradiologia, Polo Diagnostica per immagini, radioterapia, oncologia ed ematologia, Area diagnostica per immagini, Rome, Italy.,Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Istituto di Radiologia, Rome, Italy
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23
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Zhao B, Li T, Yang Y, Wang X, Luo T, Shan Y, Zhu Z, Xiong D, Hauberg ME, Bendl J, Fullard JF, Roussos P, Li Y, Stein JL, Zhu H. Common genetic variation influencing human white matter microstructure. Science 2021; 372:372/6548/eabf3736. [PMID: 34140357 DOI: 10.1126/science.abf3736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Brain regions communicate with each other through tracts of myelinated axons, commonly referred to as white matter. We identified common genetic variants influencing white matter microstructure using diffusion magnetic resonance imaging of 43,802 individuals. Genome-wide association analysis identified 109 associated loci, 30 of which were detected by tract-specific functional principal components analysis. A number of loci colocalized with brain diseases, such as glioma and stroke. Genetic correlations were observed between white matter microstructure and 57 complex traits and diseases. Common variants associated with white matter microstructure altered the function of regulatory elements in glial cells, particularly oligodendrocytes. This large-scale tract-specific study advances the understanding of the genetic architecture of white matter and its genetic links to a wide spectrum of clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingxin Zhao
- Department of Statistics, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Tengfei Li
- Department of Radiology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Biomedical Research Imaging Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Yue Yang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xifeng Wang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Tianyou Luo
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Yue Shan
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Ziliang Zhu
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Di Xiong
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Mads E Hauberg
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,iPSYCH, The Lundbeck Foundation Initiative for Integrative Psychiatric Research, 8210 Aarhus, Denmark.,Centre for Integrative Sequencing (iSEQ), Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jaroslav Bendl
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - John F Fullard
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Panagiotis Roussos
- Department of Psychiatry, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Friedman Brain Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Genetics and Genomic Science and Institute for Multiscale Biology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (VISN 2 South), James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Bronx, NY 10468, USA
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,Department of Computer Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Jason L Stein
- Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.,UNC Neuroscience Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Hongtu Zhu
- Biomedical Research Imaging Center, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA. .,Department of Biostatistics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
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24
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Lauri A, Fasano G, Venditti M, Dallapiccola B, Tartaglia M. In vivo Functional Genomics for Undiagnosed Patients: The Impact of Small GTPases Signaling Dysregulation at Pan-Embryo Developmental Scale. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:642235. [PMID: 34124035 PMCID: PMC8194860 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.642235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
While individually rare, disorders affecting development collectively represent a substantial clinical, psychological, and socioeconomic burden to patients, families, and society. Insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying these disorders are required to speed up diagnosis, improve counseling, and optimize management toward targeted therapies. Genome sequencing is now unveiling previously unexplored genetic variations in undiagnosed patients, which require functional validation and mechanistic understanding, particularly when dealing with novel nosologic entities. Functional perturbations of key regulators acting on signals' intersections of evolutionarily conserved pathways in these pathological conditions hinder the fine balance between various developmental inputs governing morphogenesis and homeostasis. However, the distinct mechanisms by which these hubs orchestrate pathways to ensure the developmental coordinates are poorly understood. Integrative functional genomics implementing quantitative in vivo models of embryogenesis with subcellular precision in whole organisms contribute to answering these questions. Here, we review the current knowledge on genes and mechanisms critically involved in developmental syndromes and pediatric cancers, revealed by genomic sequencing and in vivo models such as insects, worms and fish. We focus on the monomeric GTPases of the RAS superfamily and their influence on crucial developmental signals and processes. We next discuss the effectiveness of exponentially growing functional assays employing tractable models to identify regulatory crossroads. Unprecedented sophistications are now possible in zebrafish, i.e., genome editing with single-nucleotide precision, nanoimaging, highly resolved recording of multiple small molecules activity, and simultaneous monitoring of brain circuits and complex behavioral response. These assets permit accurate real-time reporting of dynamic small GTPases-controlled processes in entire organisms, owning the potential to tackle rare disease mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Lauri
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Marco Tartaglia
- Genetics and Rare Diseases Research Division, Ospedale Pediatrico Bambino Gesù, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
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25
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Accogli A, Geraldo AF, Piccolo G, Riva A, Scala M, Balagura G, Salpietro V, Madia F, Maghnie M, Zara F, Striano P, Tortora D, Severino M, Capra V. Diagnostic Approach to Macrocephaly in Children. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:794069. [PMID: 35096710 PMCID: PMC8795981 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.794069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Macrocephaly affects up to 5% of the pediatric population and is defined as an abnormally large head with an occipitofrontal circumference (OFC) >2 standard deviations (SD) above the mean for a given age and sex. Taking into account that about 2-3% of the healthy population has an OFC between 2 and 3 SD, macrocephaly is considered as "clinically relevant" when OFC is above 3 SD. This implies the urgent need for a diagnostic workflow to use in the clinical setting to dissect the several causes of increased OFC, from the benign form of familial macrocephaly and the Benign enlargement of subarachnoid spaces (BESS) to many pathological conditions, including genetic disorders. Moreover, macrocephaly should be differentiated by megalencephaly (MEG), which refers exclusively to brain overgrowth, exceeding twice the SD (3SD-"clinically relevant" megalencephaly). While macrocephaly can be isolated and benign or may be the first indication of an underlying congenital, genetic, or acquired disorder, megalencephaly is most likely due to a genetic cause. Apart from the head size evaluation, a detailed family and personal history, neuroimaging, and a careful clinical evaluation are crucial to reach the correct diagnosis. In this review, we seek to underline the clinical aspects of macrocephaly and megalencephaly, emphasizing the main differential diagnosis with a major focus on common genetic disorders. We thus provide a clinico-radiological algorithm to guide pediatricians in the assessment of children with macrocephaly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Accogli
- Division of Medical Genetics, Department of Medicine, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ana Filipa Geraldo
- Diagnostic Neuroradiology Unit, Imaging Department, Centro Hospitalar Vila Nova de Gaia/Espinho, Vila Nova de Gaia, Portugal
| | - Gianluca Piccolo
- Pediatric Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Antonella Riva
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marcello Scala
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ganna Balagura
- Pediatric Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Salpietro
- Pediatric Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Francesca Madia
- Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Mohamad Maghnie
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Pediatric Clinic and Endocrinology, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Federico Zara
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy.,Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
| | - Pasquale Striano
- Pediatric Neurology and Neuromuscular Diseases Unit, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Domenico Tortora
- Neuroradiology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Valeria Capra
- Medical Genetics Unit, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Institute, Genoa, Italy
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26
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Neuron type-specific expression of a mutant KRAS impairs hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. Sci Rep 2020; 10:17730. [PMID: 33082413 PMCID: PMC7575532 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-74610-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
KRAS mutations are associated with rare cases of neurodevelopmental disorders that can cause intellectual disabilities. Previous studies showed that mice expressing a mutant KRAS have impaired the development and function of GABAergic inhibitory neurons, which may contribute to behavioural deficits in the mutant mice. However, the underlying cellular mechanisms and the role of excitatory neurons in these behavioural deficits in adults are not fully understood. Herein, we report that neuron type-specific expression of a constitutively active mutant KRASG12V in either excitatory or inhibitory neurons resulted in spatial memory deficits in adult mice. In inhibitory neurons, KRASG12V induced ERK activation and enhanced GABAergic synaptic transmission. Expressing KRASG12V in inhibitory neurons also impaired long-term potentiation in the hippocampal Shaffer-collateral pathway, which could be rescued by picrotoxin treatment. In contrast, KRASG12V induced ERK activation and neuronal cell death in excitatory neurons, which might have contributed to the severe behavioural deficits. Our results showed that both excitatory and inhibitory neurons are involved in mutant KRAS-associated learning deficits in adults via distinct cellular mechanisms.
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27
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Lee TY, Cho IS, Bashyal N, Naya FJ, Tsai MJ, Yoon JS, Choi JM, Park CH, Kim SS, Suh-Kim H. ERK Regulates NeuroD1-mediated Neurite Outgrowth via Proteasomal Degradation. Exp Neurobiol 2020; 29:189-206. [PMID: 32606250 PMCID: PMC7344372 DOI: 10.5607/en20021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurogenic differentiation 1 (NeuroD1) is a class B basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor and regulates differentiation and survival of neuronal and endocrine cells by means of several protein kinases, including extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). However, the effect of phosphorylation on the functions of NeuroD1 by ERK has sparked controversy based on context-dependent differences across diverse species and cell types. Here, we evidenced that ERK-dependent phosphorylation controlled the stability of NeuroD1 and consequently, regulated proneural activity in neuronal cells. A null mutation at the ERK-dependent phosphorylation site, S274A, increased the half-life of NeuroD1 by blocking its ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal degradation. The S274A mutation did not interfere with either the nuclear translocation of NeuroD1 or its heterodimerization with E47, its ubiquitous partner and class A bHLH transcription factor. However, the S274A mutant increased transactivation of the E-box-mediated gene and neurite outgrowth in F11 neuroblastoma cells, compared to the wild-type NeuroD1. Transcriptome and Gene Ontology enrichment analyses indicated that genes involved in axonogenesis and dendrite development were downregulated in NeuroD1 knockout (KO) mice. Overexpression of the S274A mutant salvaged neurite outgrowth in NeuroD1-deficient mice, whereas neurite outgrowth was minimal with S274D, a phosphomimicking mutant. Our data indicated that a longer protein half-life enhanced the overall activity of NeuroD1 in stimulating downstream genes and neuronal differentiation. We propose that blocking ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal degradation may serve as a strategy to promote neuronal activity by stimulating the expression of neuron-specific genes in differentiating neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Young Lee
- Department of Anatomy, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea.,Research Center, CelleBrain Ltd., Jeonju 54871, Korea
| | - In-Su Cho
- Department of Anatomy, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Narayan Bashyal
- Department of Anatomy, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Francisco J Naya
- Department of Biology, Life Science and Engineering Building, Boston University, Boston, MA 00215, USA
| | - Ming-Jer Tsai
- Department of Medicine and Program in Developmental Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jeong Seon Yoon
- Department of Anatomy, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Jung-Mi Choi
- Department of Anatomy, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Chang-Hwan Park
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea
| | - Sung-Soo Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea
| | - Haeyoung Suh-Kim
- Department of Anatomy, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, Graduate School, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon 16499, Korea.,Research Center, CelleBrain Ltd., Jeonju 54871, Korea
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28
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Accogli A, Scala M, Pavanello M, Severino M, Gandolfo C, De Marco P, Musacchia F, Torella A, Pinelli M, Nigro V, Capra V. Sinus pericranii, skull defects, and structural brain anomalies in TRAF7-related disorder. Birth Defects Res 2020; 112:1085-1092. [PMID: 32459067 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.1711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several somatic mutations in TRAF7 have been reported in cancers, whereas a few germline heterozygous mutations have been recently linked to a neurodevelopmental disorder, characterized by craniofacial dysmorphisms, congenital heart defects, and digital anomalies. CASES We report two subjects harboring de novo heterozygous missense variants in TRAF7, namely the recurrent 1964G>A(p.Arg655Gln) and the novel missense c.1204C>G(p.Leu402Val) variants. In addition to the typical hallmarks of the TRAF7-related disorder, both subjects presented with a recognizable "pear-shaped" skull due to multiple craniosynostosis, sinus pericranii, skull base/cranio-cervical junction anomalies, dysgyria, and inferior cerebellar vermis hypoplasia. CONCLUSIONS Hence, we expand the genotypic and phenotypic spectrum of this neurodevelopmental disorder, discussing possible implications for clinical management of subjects with germline TRAF7 mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Accogli
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marcello Scala
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy.,Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Pavanello
- UOC Neurosurgery, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Carlo Gandolfo
- Neuroradiology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | - Patrizia De Marco
- Unit of Medical Genetics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Annalaura Torella
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Michele Pinelli
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Nigro
- Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine, Pozzuoli, Italy.,Medical Genetics, Department of Precision Medicine, Università degli Studi della Campania 'Luigi Vanvitelli', Naples, Italy
| | - Valeria Capra
- UOC Neurosurgery, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
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